By Ademola Adekusibe
January 9, 2025
The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has called for the immediate establishment of a permanent military base in Otefon village as part of urgent measures to defend Yorubaland following the deadly attack on Oloka village in Old Oyo National Park.
The monarch described the killings of civilians and forest rangers as a direct threat to the security of Yoruba communities, warning that continued absence of a strong military presence in the area exposes the region to further attacks by armed groups.
According to the Alaafin, Otefon’s strategic location makes it critical to the security of Old Oyo National Park and the wider Oyo-Oduduwa corridor. He said the creation of a military base there would serve as a forward defense post to prevent incursions and protect surrounding towns and villages across Yorubaland.
The Alaafin also demanded a full investigation into the Oloka killings and the immediate arrest of those responsible, stressing that insecurity in the region has reached a level that requires decisive military intervention.
He urged the Federal Government to designate Otefon and its surrounding areas as a strategic national security zone and to deploy additional troops for sustained patrols within the park. The monarch added that securing the area is essential not only for public safety but for preserving the historical and cultural heritage of Yorubaland.
The Alaafin sympathised with the families of the victims and reiterated that defending Yoruba communities must now be treated as a national security priority.
